News Release

Thursday, May 19, 2011

South American Theft Ring

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Rampart Area detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying two female suspects who are responsible for several thefts.

The thefts occurred between April 23, 2011 and May 11, 2011, between the hours of 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. Two female suspects entered several stores in the 1300 block of West Sunset Boulevard, 1800 block of North Broadway and in the 3300 block of Eastern Avenue. Once inside, the suspects distracted the employees by asking for an item high on a shelf. The suspects then took the employee’s purse and left in a white, possible Nissan compact car. The two suspects are possibly part of a larger South American theft ring.

Suspect one is described as a female Hispanic, 40-50 years of age with black hair in a bun style. She stands 5 feet tall and weighs 160 pounds. She usually wears a long dress and has painted eyebrows.

Suspect two is described as a female Hispanic, 35-40 years of age with black to red hair. She stands 5 feet tall and has shoulder length hair, which is sometimes worn in a bun style.

Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call Rampart Burglary Detective Elder at 213-484-3487. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.